Philly Cheesesteak Cheese Fries

When it comes to indulgent comfort food, there’s nothing quite like Philly Cheesesteak Cheese Fries. This dish is a flavor-packed fusion of two American classics: the iconic Philly cheesesteak and crispy, golden French fries. The result is a loaded plate of cheesy, meaty, and hearty goodness that’s perfect for game-day snacking, casual dinners, or any time you’re craving something decadently satisfying.

Picture this: crispy fries topped with tender, seasoned steak, caramelized onions, sautéed peppers, and gooey melted cheese. Every bite is a symphony of textures and flavors, from the crunch of the fries to the richness of the beef and the creamy, melted cheese sauce. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer for a crowd or a main dish for a laid-back dinner, Philly Cheesesteak Cheese Fries are guaranteed to be a hit.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to make this showstopping dish at home, including step-by-step instructions, tips for perfecting the fries and toppings, and creative variations. Get ready to take your fries to the next level!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Ultimate Comfort Food: Combining crispy fries, juicy steak, and melted cheese makes this the ultimate indulgence.
2. Easy to Customize: Add your favorite veggies, adjust the cheese, or make it spicy—the options are endless.
3. Perfect for Sharing: A crowd-pleaser that’s ideal for parties, game nights, or casual gatherings.
4. Restaurant-Quality at Home: Get the taste of your favorite loaded fries without leaving your kitchen.
5. Quick and Simple: With just a few steps, you can create a dish that looks and tastes impressive.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 generous portion

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 610
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 38g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 5g

Ingredients

For the Fries:

• 1 pound frozen French fries (crinkle-cut, shoestring, or steak fries)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (if making homemade fries)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Steak:

• 1 pound ribeye steak or sirloin steak, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Toppings:

• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for sautéing)

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for creaminess)
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese (or mozzarella)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes:

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Crushed red pepper flakes (for spice)
• Extra shredded cheese for sprinkling

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Fries

If using frozen French fries, cook them according to the package instructions. For extra crispiness, toss the fries with a little olive oil before baking. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

If making homemade fries, cut 2-3 large russet potatoes into thin strips, toss with olive oil, and bake at 425°F for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through. Season the fries with salt and pepper while they’re still hot.

2. Cook the Steak

Thinly slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness. If the steak isn’t pre-sliced, freeze it for 15 minutes before slicing—this makes it easier to cut into thin strips.

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Add the Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the steak in the seasonings, then remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Onions and Peppers

In the same skillet, heat another tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

4. Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it’s golden and bubbly.

Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it thicken for 2-3 minutes. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded provolone (or mozzarella) and cheddar cheeses. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

5. Assemble the Philly Cheesesteak Cheese Fries

Arrange the cooked fries on a large serving platter or baking sheet. Top the fries with the sautéed onions and peppers, followed by the cooked steak. Drizzle the warm cheese sauce generously over the top.

For extra cheesiness, sprinkle a handful of shredded cheese over the fries and broil them for 1-2 minutes until melted and bubbly.

6. Garnish and Serve

Garnish the loaded fries with chopped parsley, crushed red pepper flakes, or any additional toppings you like. Serve immediately with forks or as a finger food for a fun and indulgent meal.

Ingredient Background

Steak

Ribeye is the preferred cut for Philly cheesesteak because of its rich marbling and tenderness. However, sirloin steak or even thinly sliced roast beef can be used as a more affordable alternative.

Fries

Frozen fries are a convenient option, but homemade fries made from fresh potatoes add a rustic touch. Use russet potatoes for crispy, restaurant-style fries or Yukon Gold for a slightly creamier texture.

Cheese

Provolone is the traditional cheese for Philly cheesesteaks, offering a mild, nutty flavor. Cheddar adds sharpness, and mozzarella contributes creaminess. You can mix and match cheeses to suit your taste.

Vegetables

Onions and bell peppers are the classic veggies for a Philly cheesesteak, adding sweetness and texture. Feel free to include mushrooms or jalapeños for extra flavor.

Technique Tips

1. Cut Steak Thinly: Thinly slicing the steak ensures it cooks quickly and stays tender. Freeze the steak briefly to make slicing easier.
2. Crispy Fries: For the crispiest fries, bake them at a high temperature, and don’t overcrowd the pan.
3. Cheese Sauce Consistency: Add more milk if the cheese sauce is too thick, or let it simmer longer to thicken if it’s too thin.
4. Layer Strategically: Layer the steak and veggies evenly over the fries so every bite has a perfect balance of flavors.
5. Serve Immediately: Philly cheesesteak cheese fries are best enjoyed fresh while the fries are crispy and the cheese is gooey.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

1. Skillet Philly Cheesesteak Fries: Serve the loaded fries directly in a cast-iron skillet for a rustic, shareable presentation.
2. Philly Cheesesteak Nachos: Substitute tortilla chips for fries and layer them with the same toppings for a fun twist.
3. Philly Cheesesteak Poutine: Use thick-cut fries and smother them in cheese curds and brown gravy alongside the steak and veggies.
4. Individual Servings: Assemble mini portions of the loaded fries in small bowls or baskets for individual servings at a party.

Additional Tips for Success

• Double the Recipe: If serving a crowd, double the ingredients and use a large baking sheet to assemble the fries.
• Add More Veggies: Include mushrooms, jalapeños, or diced tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
• Make It Spicy: Drizzle hot sauce over the top or add crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.

Recipe Variations

1. Chicken Philly Cheese Fries: Replace the steak with thinly sliced chicken breast for a poultry twist.
2. Vegetarian Philly Cheese Fries: Skip the meat and load the fries with sautéed mushrooms, onions, and peppers.
3. BBQ Philly Cheese Fries: Add a drizzle of BBQ sauce for a smoky, tangy flavor.
4. Breakfast Philly Cheese Fries: Top the fries with scrambled eggs, steak, and cheese for a hearty breakfast version.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing

While the fries and cheese sauce don’t freeze well, the cooked steak and sautéed veggies can be frozen. Store them in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before assembling the dish.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore some of the fries’ crispiness.

Healthier Twist Ideas

1. Use Sweet Potato Fries: Sweet potato fries add a touch of natural sweetness and more fiber to the dish.
2. Lighten the Cheese Sauce: Use reduced-fat cheese and milk for a lighter sauce.
3. Add More Veggies: Load up on veggies like spinach, zucchini, or broccoli for extra nutrients.
4. Air-Fry the Fries: Use an air fryer for crispy fries with less oil.

Serving Suggestions for Events

1. Game Day Favorite: Serve Philly Cheesesteak Cheese Fries alongside wings, sliders, and dips for the ultimate game-day spread.
2. Party Appetizer: Set up a “build-your-own” station with fries, steak, cheese sauce, and toppings so guests can customize their plates.
3. Casual Dinner: Pair the loaded fries with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Special Equipment

• Large Skillet: For cooking the steak and sautéing the veggies.
• Baking Sheet: For cooking the fries.
• Medium Saucepan: For making the cheese sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen steak?
   Yes, but thaw it completely and pat it dry before slicing and cooking.
2. What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
   Provolone is the classic choice, but mozzarella, cheddar, or even a cheese blend works well.
3. Can I make the fries from scratch?
   Absolutely! Freshly cut fries are delicious and can be baked or fried.
4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, use gluten-free fries and substitute cornstarch for flour in the cheese sauce.
5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
   Reheat the fries in the oven or air fryer to maintain their crispiness, and warm the cheese sauce separately.
6. Can I use chicken instead of beef?
   Yes, thinly sliced chicken breast or thigh works as a delicious alternative.
7. What sides go well with Philly Cheesesteak Cheese Fries?
   A simple green salad or roasted vegetables pair nicely with this indulgent dish.
8. Can I add mushrooms?
   Yes, sautéed mushrooms are a fantastic addition to this dish.

Conclusion

Philly Cheesesteak Cheese Fries are the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy fries, tender steak, sautéed veggies, and gooey cheese into one irresistible dish. Perfect for sharing or enjoying as a main course, these loaded fries are as satisfying as they are indulgent. Whether you’re serving them for game day, a family dinner, or a party, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Try it today, and experience the ultimate fusion of two classic favorites!

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